Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
14 oz (400 grams) Shrimp
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
1/3 tsp black pepper
2 tsp vegetable oil
1/2 cup water
1/2 tsp sugar
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tbsp hoisin sauce
2 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp dark soy sauce
2-3 tbsp vegetable oil for stir-frying
12 oz (340 grams) broccoli
8 cloves garlic, diced
1/2 tbsp minced ginger
A few red dried chilies
Directions:
Marinate the shrimp: Start by patting dry the shrimp with paper towels. Season them with salt, paprika, black pepper, and a drizzle of vegetable oil. Mix thoroughly to coat the shrimp evenly. Set aside to marinate while you prepare other ingredients.
Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, combine water, sugar, oyster sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and dark soy sauce. Stir well until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This savory sauce will infuse your stir fry with irresistible flavors.
Prepare the broccoli: Trim the broccoli into florets, and optionally utilize the stems by peeling and cutting them into quarters. For an extra burst of flavor, pickle the stems as you would cucumber, adding a delightful twist to your dish.
Prep the garlic, ginger, and chilies: Dice garlic cloves and mince ginger finely. If you desire an extra kick of heat, cut open a few dried red chilies. These aromatic ingredients will elevate the flavors of your stir fry to new heights.
Heat the wok: Place your wok over high heat until it becomes smoking hot. Drizzle in vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly, preparing it for the stir-frying process.
Stir fry the shrimp: Add the marinated shrimp to the hot wok and stir-fry for a few minutes until they turn pink. Ensure they are only partially cooked, with a slight translucency in the center. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set them aside.
Stir fry the vegetables: Tilt the wok to leave the oil behind and reduce the heat to medium. Add diced garlic, minced ginger, optional red dried chilies, and broccoli florets to the wok. Stir-fry for a minute or two until they become tender yet crisp.
Steam the broccoli: Introduce 2 tablespoons of water to the side of the wok and promptly cover it with a lid. This steaming method will ensure the broccoli cooks through while retaining its vibrant color and nutrients.
Add the sauce and shrimp: Pour the prepared sauce into the wok and reintroduce the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together gently, allowing the sauce to coat every ingredient evenly. Cook for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens to perfection.
Serve: Your mouthwatering Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry in Garlic Sauce is now ready to be served. Transfer it to a serving dish and relish the delightful flavors and textures. Serve hot and enjoy a culinary masterpiece!
Note: Calorie count may vary based on ingredient brands and quantities used. Embrace the versatility of this recipe by experimenting with different vegetables and protein options to suit your preferences.
Serving Tips:
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro, green onions, or thinly sliced red chili peppers over the finished dish for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with Rice or Noodles: Pair this flavorful stir fry with steamed rice, fried rice, or your favorite noodles for a complete meal. The sauce pairs wonderfully with grains, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Add Crunchy Toppings: For extra texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or crispy fried shallots on top just before serving.
Serve with a Side Dish: Accompany your shrimp and broccoli stir fry with additional Asian-inspired side dishes like vegetable spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Family-Style Dining: Place the wok directly on the dining table and allow everyone to serve themselves, creating an interactive and communal dining experience.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Ensure it cools down to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation.
Freezing: While shrimp and broccoli stir fry is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Transfer the cooled stir fry to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Thawing and Reheating: Thaw frozen stir fry overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to prevent drying out.
Serve with Fresh Ingredients: When reheating leftovers, consider adding some fresh vegetables or herbs to enhance the flavors and textures. A handful of spinach, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas make excellent additions.
Avoid Overcooking: To preserve the freshness and texture of the shrimp and broccoli, avoid overcooking during reheating. Heat just until warmed through to maintain their tender-crisp consistency.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most of your delicious shrimp and broccoli stir fry in garlic sauce, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the first. Enjoy!
Variations:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish. Press and cube the tofu or tempeh, then marinate and stir fry them until golden brown before adding the sauce and vegetables.
Protein Alternatives: Experiment with different proteins such as chicken, beef, or thinly sliced pork loin. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.
Seafood Medley: Expand your seafood options by incorporating a mix of shrimp, scallops, and squid for a flavorful seafood stir fry. Adjust cooking times for each seafood variety to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
Spice it Up: For those who enjoy extra heat, increase the amount of red dried chilies or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes during cooking. You can also incorporate fresh chili peppers for a vibrant kick.
Citrus Twist: Add a burst of freshness by incorporating citrus zest or juice. Try adding a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice to the sauce for a tangy twist.
Nutty Flavor: Enhance the dish with the addition of toasted nuts such as cashews, almonds, or peanuts. Sprinkle them over the stir fry just before serving for added crunch and flavor.
Asian Greens: Experiment with different leafy greens such as bok choy, Chinese broccoli (gai lan), or baby spinach for a nutritious boost. Add them to the stir fry along with the broccoli for a colorful and flavorful variation.
Sesame Infusion: Introduce a nutty aroma by drizzling toasted sesame oil over the finished dish just before serving. This adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste profile.
Sweet and Sour Twist: Add a sweet and sour element to the sauce by incorporating a tablespoon of rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar along with a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
Creamy Addition: For a creamy twist, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk or heavy cream into the sauce. This adds richness and velvety texture to the dish.
These variations offer endless possibilities for customizing your shrimp and broccoli stir fry in garlic sauce according to your taste preferences and dietary requirements. Feel free to get creative and tailor the dish to suit your culinary desires!"